Kitai journeyed often to the North of Japan in the 1970s, seeking something of the essence of his homeland.

In the Tohjiba natural hot spring lodgings farming families would take up residence following the end of their seasons of hard work culminating in the harvests. Living in the tohjiba for several weeks, enjoying the relaxed pace of life centered on the hot springs. When Japan lived at a slower pace, far from the economic miracle and tensions of Japan`s big cities.